TSS-Radio Blog » Sirius XM Antennashttp://www.tss-radio.com/blog
News and information about Sirius XM Radios and accessories.Fri, 06 Feb 2015 17:51:39 +0000en-UShourly1SiriusXM Internet Radiohttp://www.tss-radio.com/blog/siriusxm-internet-radio/
http://www.tss-radio.com/blog/siriusxm-internet-radio/#commentsThu, 21 Jun 2012 16:30:53 +0000http://www.tss-radio.com/blog/?p=1910Bleep blop blurp wuuurrr… Hey, your internet’s calling! Its got a whole new set of skills. The internet is a reliable source for just about anything you could possibly imagine. Its a veritable genie at your finger tips. Ask and ye shall receive. But then you already know that. That’s why you’re here. You being the tech savvy consumer you are, have already figured out that TSS Radio is the best online retailer for all SiriusXM parts and accessories. You know it, I know it, and the internet knows it. That’s not why its calling. The internet is calling to let you know about all of the SiriusXM content that’s available online. With the update to Sirius 2.0 and its new Beta Player, there’s a whole lot to be excited about!

What is Sirius 2.0 you ask? I’m so glad you did. SiriusXM has provided online content for years, but the recent update to Sirius 2.0 it has gotten a whole lot better. You still have the ability to listen to the online content anywhere you want, using the same username and password, on any device that can connect you to the internet. The Internet Radio subscription gives you additional content, not available through the satellite feed, as well as the new XTRA channels. The XTRA channels have a lot of great options, which for me, couldn’t be more perfect. I love comedy, rock n’ roll, and sports. With the XTRA channels, I get great new comedy selections from Carlin’s Corner and UCB Radio. RockBar and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Radio provide some of the best music ever made. And SportsCenter gives me all the latest news from ESPN. Not to mention, Internet Radio’s ability to give you live play-by-play for just about every sport out there. Who could ask for more? Spanish speaking listeners? Included in the new XTRA channels is a great deal of Latin programing, including about a dozen dedicated Latin & World channels. That’s all in addition to the online channels only available with an internet subscription. But Sirius 2.0 is much more than just XTRA Channels.

Have you ever wished you could time travel, but lacked the Flux Capacitor? With Sirius 2.0’s Start Now feature you can go back 5 hours from where you start listening to see what you missed. Some channels are more limited with this feature, but most talk shows allow it. You can pause, rewind, and fast forward live radio on any channel. Due to bandwidth restrictions there is a limit to the number of times you can skip a song, but the ability to go back to the beginning of a show is really unbeatable. Not only can you jump back 5 hours, but you can search to see whats on other channels all while you listen to your current station. There is even a Show Alert function that will tell you when your favorite song or artist is playing on another channel. If you missed the alert and flipped over too late, don’t sweat it, Sirius 2.0 has that covered as well. With TuneStart, SiriusXM automatically starts the song from the beginning when you tune into the station… On every channel! You can even store your favorite channels for easier access. Want even easier access? Try On Demand, Sirius 2.0’s newest feature. On Demand is exactly what it sounds like, the ability to access past shows at any time, and listen whenever you’d like! With dozens of ways to tune in, whats not to love about Sirius 2.0?!

Whoopee, you say? (With genuine excitement, I am sure) How can I go about obtaining this glorious Sirius 2.0? Why, how else? The internet! For just $3.99 you can add an internet subscription to your existing satellite subscription. Then, you can access SiriusXM internet radio from home, work, or anywhere you get an internet connection. Just because the content is online, doesn’t mean you need a computer to access it. Internet Radios like Grace Wireless and the TTR1 Sirius Tabletop are great options for indoor use. The Grace models provide features that go well beyond the SiriusXM online content by also delivering access to thousands of Internet Radio options from around the world. Of course, SiriusXM provides receivers can deliver Sirius 2.0 as well. The SiriusXM Edge, for instance, operates solely on a satellite feed, but comes equipped with Sirius2.0 features such as XTRA Channels. The Edge is a Plug and Play receiver like most others on the XM platform. On the Sirius side, the Stiletto 2 is capable of connecting via WiFi and therefore capable of getting Sirius 2.0 within range of a router. The nice thing about the Stiletto is its versatility. It can be used with WiFi, as a plug and play unit in docking stations, or portably with a built in antenna and battery. Unfortunately the Stiletto is discontinued, so its parts and accessories are becoming more and more difficult to come by, though we will carry them as long as we possibly can. One of the most fascinating and exciting receivers that receives Sirius 2.0 is the new SiriusXM Lynx.

The Lynx is a ground breaking new receiver for SiriusXM, that is sure to change how people listen to Satellite Radio. It can be used portably with a WiFi signal and is optimally designed for Sirius 2.0. With a built in speaker as well as a headphone jack, this radio is ideal for carrying around the house or office while streaming your internet subscription. You can also use it like a Plug and Play receiver in Home Kits, Vehicle Kits, and Boomboxes where it will receive a satellite signal. Another ground breaking feature is the ability to connect to devices via Bluetooth so your home stereo plays what the device you carry around portably displays. The Lynx is designed on a modified version of the Andriod platform, and has a touch screen display that is very easy to use. All of the features from Sirius 2.0 are available with this unit, as well as a few additional features. Radio Replays, Artist and Song information, as well as some rumored updates yet-to-come such as On Demand, make this radio unparallelled to any other. The Lynx makes one wonder why anyone would want to listen through a computer or app.

Computers, Tablets, and Smartphones are like the internet, they’re everywhere. There’s a reason they call it the World Wide Web. An internet subscription allows you to listen to live NFL games in Europe, MLB in Asia, and NPR in Africa. Your only limit to the online content is internet access. Connecting audio for these parts has never been easier. Whether you are using the basic RCA Input, an iPod dock, or Smartphone adapter, TSS Radio has the parts you need to play your Radio at home or in a vehicle. I’m of the opinion that SiriusXM Satellite is the way to go for road travel, and even in home with the right satellite radio home antenna. With SiriusXM online, as with any online content, you will always be limited to internet access. The Satellites hovering above North America ensure you will always have a signal provided you can aim an antenna in the sky. When you do have internet access though, nothing compares to the clarity and quality of the sound on SiriusXM’s internet service. Give it a try, you won’t regret it. You can get a free trail right now from, where else? The internet! It’s a wonderful tool. With Sirius 2.0, its even better.

]]>http://www.tss-radio.com/blog/siriusxm-internet-radio/feed/0XM Antenna Buying Guidehttp://www.tss-radio.com/blog/xm-antenna-buying-guide/
http://www.tss-radio.com/blog/xm-antenna-buying-guide/#commentsWed, 29 Jun 2011 20:43:03 +0000http://www.tss-radio.com/blog/?p=1145When choosing an antenna for your XM radio, you may be confused about the different models and what is best for your setup. This short guide will go over some of the common XM antenna models and help you figure out what you need.

Vehicle Antennas

The Mini XM Car Antenna is the smallest satellite radio antenna on the market. At around 1 square inch, it is probably the most unobtrusive antenna you’ll find. High gain and a 20ft. antenna cable make this antenna a great solution for customers looking for a small and strong antenna. Works with any single-input XM radio.

The XM Car Antenna is included with most XM Plug and Play Radio models. It is a low profile, high gain antenna that works with all single-input XM radios. It features rubber feet on the bottom to protect your vehicle’s finish and has a 23 ft. attached cable that can easily routed under interior molding for a clean look.

This antenna from Browning features a slightly thicker cable that tends to be more durable than some of the XM branded antennas. It has the same high gain and 20ft. cable, and utilizes the standard SMB connection, making it compatible and ideal for any single input XM radio. It also includes an adhesive pad for customers who would like a more permanent mounting solution.

The XMicro is a versatile antenna that can be used with older FAKRA style XM Radios or standard, single input SMB antenna connections. It features a low profile, 23 ft. cable, magnetic base, and rubber feet to protect your vehicle’s finish. It’s a great option for customers who currently have an older radio, but who may be considering upgrading.

XM Home Antennas

The XM Home Antenna is the most common type of XM antenna for home use. It is included with all current XM boomboxes and home kits, and is sold separately as a replacement. This antenna has a 20ft. cable and can be easily mounted indoor or outdoor for use. Compatible with most XM single input docking stations or radios.

The Terk XM6 is a weather resistant, high performance outdoor antenna for use with most XM Radios. The XM6 uses standard RG6 coaxial cable for extra durability and longer cable runs (can drive up to 100ft.) It includes a F to SMB adapter cable to plug into any standard single input XM docking station or boombox.

The Pixel Pro-500 and Pro-600 are professional grade antennas that work with both Sirius and XM satellite radios. Featuring 12 and 8.5 dBi Gain (respectively) these Pixel antennas are the strongest on the market. Both antennas utilize standard RG6 coaxial cable and include F to SMB adapter cables to plug into your satellite radio. In addition, both antennas can drive up to 200ft. of cable without any additional external amplifiers.

]]>http://www.tss-radio.com/blog/xm-antenna-buying-guide/feed/0How to get the best SIRIUS/XM Satellite Signalhttp://www.tss-radio.com/blog/how-to-get-the-best-sirius-satellite-signal/
http://www.tss-radio.com/blog/how-to-get-the-best-sirius-satellite-signal/#commentsMon, 12 Jan 2009 17:50:42 +0000http://www.tss-radio.com/blog/2009/01/12/how-to-get-the-best-sirius-satellite-signal/Throughout this “how to” I will discuss the tricks and tips on How to get the best Satellite Signal possible out of your SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

First to find out how to get a better signal, we need to look at how the signal is sent. SIRIUS and XM both us different Satellite Patterns so I will Discuss them individually.

How the SIRIUS Signal is delivered. SIRIUS uses satellites that are always moving in a “figure-8″ pattern. The best rule of thumb is imagine that the SIRIUS satellites are in the sky above Minnesota. That is the best direction to aim your antenna. Larger cities also have what’s called Terrestrial repeaters. These act as repeaters for areas that could not otherwise get signal, ie. behind large buildings. These cities have receivers and transmitters on the ground that blanket the area in signal.

If you check on your SIRIUS Radio menu, click SIGNAL INDICATOR or ANTENNA AIMING, you will see a SAT and TER with several boxes filled in black. This is your signal strength. SAT is the direct signal from satellites in space, TER is the signal from on-the-ground repeaters.

XM Radio works on the same principle except their satellites do not move. XM Home antennas should always be pointed towards the SOUTH as the satellites are located on the Equator.

If you are having good luck getting signal in one room and want to use your SIRIUS in another try the ECHO Repeater System or try a SIRIUS Extension Cable.These both allow you to place your SIRIUS antenna in one area and the SIRIUS Radio in another.

If you are having trouble receiving signal in your home, and you have tried all the possible antenna placements an upgraded antenna may allow you to pull in the signal better. A good SIRIUS outdoor antenna to go with is the SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna. The best antenna we offer works with both SIRIUS and XM Radio, the PRO-600 antenna.

In the Vehicle

In car you want to make sure your Satellite antenna is on the roof, or in a convertible on the truck lid. The magnetic antenna should always be placed 4-6 inches from the edge of the roof and clear from any roof rack or other obstruction. Make sure to route the antenna cable safely as not to crimp the cable, this can cause an Aquiring Signal error message if the cable is damaged. If you need to remove the cable from the SIRIUS dock or receiver, be sure to pull on the plug and not the cable, the cable connector could come undone and the antenna would we useless. Standard car antennas work will in many cases, but in cases like a Big-Rig or other large vehicle the standard antenna may be ill suited due to the vehicle having a fiberglass body or other obstructions, in this case using a SIRIUS and XM Radio Truck antenna would be best.

In most cases the standard antenna you buy, or receive with your radio is suffiencet to receive Satellite Radio content, being very carefully with the antenna cable and proper aiming should prove to give you quality signal. In some limited areas with canyons, forest cover and other natural sky obstructions, upgrading to a better antenna is the only way to get Satellite radio.

If you have any questions on antenna aiming feel free to email us or gives us a call 773-772-4340, we are here to help.

This Sirius/XM antenna is packed with useful features and technology. The Pro-600 can stream both SIRIUS and XM signals and can pull in the signal better than the standard SIRIUS home antenna. When paired with standard RG-6 cable (sold separately) this antenna can reach lengths up to 200ft.

All SIRIUS Sportsters use the same Home antenna. The connections are universal for the antenna.

There are a couple different types of SIRIUS Sportster 5 home antenna on the market so I will go into each one.

These antennas will work for the SIRIUS Sportster 5 SP5TK1/SP5.

SIRIUS HOME PNP ANTENNA-This is the standard antenna that comes with most SIRIUS home kits and Boomboxes. These work quite well when placed in the proper direction to receive SIRIUS signal(always face your home antenna towards Minnesota, no matter when you live in the country, this is the optimal direction).This antenna can be placed outside, but for optimal outdoor reception, the SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna would be best.

SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna- This is the industry standard outdoor antenna. Designed to weather the elements and pull in the SIRIUS signal, this antenna is used by many for rooftop or pole mounted installations.

Pixel Technologies Pro-500-This is an Outdoor Home antenna built for SIRIUS Satellite Radio. This antenna pulls in the signal with better gain(12dBi, which is 5dBi more than standard antennas) .

Pixel Technologies Pro-600-This is the updated version of the Pro-500. It only has about 8.5dBi, but this antenna can stream SIRIUS and XM at the SAME TIME! So if you have both a SIRIUS and XM radio this is a great antenna.

If you are looking for more options, or maybe a SIRIUS Antenna Extension cable, we have a variety of different solutions for any kind of situation. From simple to custom we can help, give us a call 773-772-4340.

All SIRIUS Starmates use the same Home antenna. The connections are universal for the antenna.

There are a couple different types of SIRIUS Starmate Replay Home Antenna on the market so I will go into each one.

SIRIUS HOME PNP ANTENNA-This is the standard antenna that comes with most SIRIUS home kits and Boomboxes. These work quite well when placed in the proper direction to receive SIRIUS signal(always face your home antenna towards Minnesota, no matter when you live in the country, this is the optimal direction).This antenna can be placed outside, but for optimal outdoor reception, the SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna would be best.

SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna- This is the industry standard outdoor antenna. Designed to weather the elements and pull in the SIRIUS signal, this antenna is used by many for rooftop or pole mounted installations.

Pixel Technologies Pro-500-This is an Outdoor Home antenna built for SIRIUS Satellite Radio. This antenna pulls in the signal with better gain(12dBi, which is 5dBi more than standard antennas) .

Pixel Technologies Pro-600-This is the updated version of the Pro-500. It only has about 8.5dBi, but this antenna can stream SIRIUS and XM at the SAME TIME! So if you have both a SIRIUS and XM radio this is a great antenna.

If you are looking for more options, or maybe a SIRIUS Antenna Extension cable, we have a variety of different solutions for any kind of situation. From simple to custom we can help, give us a call 773-772-4340.

All SIRIUS Starmates use the same Home antenna. The connections are universal for the antenna.

There are a couple different types of SIRIUS Starmate 5 Home Antenna on the market so I will go into each one.

These antennas will work for the SIRIUS Starmate 5 ST5/ST5R

SIRIUS HOME PNP ANTENNA-This is the standard antenna that comes with most SIRIUS home kits and Boomboxes. These work quite well when placed in the proper direction to receive SIRIUS signal(always face your home antenna towards Minnesota, no matter when you live in the country, this is the optimal direction).This antenna can be placed outside, but for optimal outdoor reception, the SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna would be best.

SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna- This is the industry standard outdoor antenna. Designed to weather the elements and pull in the SIRIUS signal, this antenna is used by many for rooftop or pole mounted installations.

Pixel Technologies Pro-500-This is an Outdoor Home antenna built for SIRIUS Satellite Radio. This antenna pulls in the signal with better gain(12dBi, which is 5dBi more than standard antennas) .

Pixel Technologies Pro-600-This is the updated version of the Pro-500. It only has about 8.5dBi, but this antenna can stream SIRIUS and XM at the SAME TIME! So if you have both a SIRIUS and XM radio this is a great antenna.

If you are looking for more options, or maybe a SIRIUS Antenna Extension cable, we have a variety of different solutions for any kind of situation. From simple to custom we can help, give us a call 773-772-4340.

All SIRIUS Sportsters use the same Home antenna. The connections are universal for the antenna.

There are a couple different types of SIRIUS Sportster 3 home antenna on the market so I will go into each one.

These antennas will work for the SIRIUS Sportster 3 SP3TK1/SP3.

SIRIUS HOME PNP ANTENNA-This is the standard antenna that comes with most SIRIUS home kits and Boomboxes. These work quite well when placed in the proper direction to receive SIRIUS signal(always face your home antenna towards Minnesota, no matter when you live in the country, this is the optimal direction).This antenna can be placed outside, but for optimal outdoor reception, the SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna would be best.

SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna- This is the industry standard outdoor antenna. Designed to weather the elements and pull in the SIRIUS signal, this antenna is used by many for rooftop or pole mounted installations.

Pixel Technologies Pro-500-This is an Outdoor Home antenna built for SIRIUS Satellite Radio. This antenna pulls in the signal with better gain(12dBi, which is 5dBi more than standard antennas) .

Pixel Technologies Pro-600-This is the updated version of the Pro-500. It only has about 8.5dBi, but this antenna can stream SIRIUS and XM at the SAME TIME! So if you have both a SIRIUS and XM radio this is a great antenna.

If you are looking for more options, or maybe a SIRIUS Antenna Extension cable, we have a variety of different solutions for any kind of situation. From simple to custom we can help, give us a call 773-772-4340.

All SIRIUS Sportsters use the same Home antenna. The connections are universal for the antenna.

There are a couple different types of SIRIUS Sportster Replay home antenna on the market so I will go into each one. All of these Antennas will work for the Sportster Replay SPR2/SP2R

SIRIUS HOME PNP ANTENNA-This is the standard antenna that comes with most SIRIUS home kits and Boomboxes. These work quite well when placed in the proper direction to receive SIRIUS signal(always face your home antenna towards Minnesota, no matter when you live in the country, this is the optimal direction).This antenna can be placed outside, but for optimal outdoor reception, the SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna would be best.

SIRIUS Outdoor Home Antenna- This is the industry standard outdoor antenna. Designed to weather the elements and pull in the SIRIUS signal, this antenna is used by many for rooftop or pole mounted installations.

Pro-500Technologies Pro-500-This is an Outdoor Home antenna built for SIRIUS Satellite Radio. This antenna pulls in the signal with better gain(12dBi, which is 5dBi more than standard antennas) .

Pixel Technologies Pro-600-This is the updated version of the Pro-500. It only has about 8.5dBi, but this antenna can stream SIRIUS and XM at the SAME TIME! So if you have both a SIRIUS and XM radio this is a great antenna.

If you are looking for more options, or maybe a SIRIUS Antenna Extension cable, we have a variety of different solutions for any kind of situation. From simple to custom we can help, give us a call 773-772-4340.